Solar
Nova Scotia’s early solar innovators
A look back at Solar Nova Scotia, Peter Allen and the region’s solar-thermal heritage.
Informational adaptation of the original LinkedIn post’s topic and available supporting material. The date shown is the original post date; wording reviewed September 2026.
Nova Scotia’s solar industry has a history that predates the recent expansion of rooftop photovoltaics. The original post revisited a 1986 article about Solar Nova Scotia and early contributors to the sector.
It highlighted Peter Allen, an engineering professor and solar innovator associated with Thermo Dynamics, whose work included solar thermal water heating. David Brushett recalled learning from Allen during his engineering studies.
This history is a reminder that solar energy includes both electricity and useful heat. Research, manufacturing and local technical expertise all contributed to the industry’s development.
The historical account credits Solar Nova Scotia, Allen and Thermo Dynamics. It provides context for today’s industry without attributing that early work to PB Energy.
